Barroso opens debate on future of oceans
European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso traveled to the Azores on 25 June to open one of the first regional consultation events looking at the Commission's Green Paper on Maritime Policy. The sea supports the economies of many major European countries, and how best to manage the sea, protect the ocean environment and ensure the sea is a viable resource for future generations is a subject for continuing research and innovation. The paper launched in Brussels on 7 June and marked the start of a year-long consultation process. Once completed, this policy will set the EU's maritime agenda for many years. The consultation aims to increase maritime competitiveness, protect the marine environment and help develop maritime regions. The Azores event will be the first in a series throughout the year to encourage people, organisations and other stakeholders to get involved and have their voice heard on what direction to take in maritime policy. 'I hope that my presence at one of the first regional events to launch our maritime consultation will send a very clear signal about the importance this European Commission attaches to an integrated and sustainable European Maritime Policy to meet the diverse challenges of the 21st century,' said Mr Barroso. 'For my Commission, this is a very high priority. We have started a year long consultation process to discuss future policy options, so there is a window of opportunity for stakeholders to make their views known. My message to the delegates attending this conference, and to the millions of citizens whose livelihoods and leisure depend on our oceans and seas, is clear: now is the time to get involved, participate in our consultation process, make your voice heard. Europe's future maritime policy is in your hands. Let's get the most out of our relationship with the seas and reflect on the potential that is waiting to be unleashed,' said Mr Barroso. Joe Borg, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs accompanied Mr Barroso. 'The outermost regions and, in particular, islands such as the Azores, provide a window onto the wider maritime world,' Joe Borg commented. 'Their experience of the sea is invaluable and their contribution particularly important for the success of the consultation process on a Maritime Policy for the Union,' he said.
Countries
Portugal